With its expertise and technical know-how, the Philippine Research, Education and Government Information Network (PREGINET) was tapped by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) to provide videoconferencing solutions for the Philippines-Mexico Cooperation Committee on Narcotics Trafficking, Drug Abuse and Related Offenses held at the DOST-ASTI last March 27, 2012.

Said event was conducted to share practices on the eradication of narcotics and drug dealing. It was participated in by several officials of the DFA and the PDEA, among whom were Assistant Secretary Carlos F. Gadapan (PDEA), Director Joseph C. Ladip (PDEA), and Director J. Anthony A. Reyes (DFA). Officials of the PDEA Task Force Agencies, particularly, the Dangerous Drugs Board, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police and Bureau of Customs likewise joined the event.

During the conference, Assistant Secretary Gadapan presented the Philippine Anti-Drug Law, narcotics situation in the Philippines, anti-narcotics accomplishments, among others. “Intensified coordination and cooperation with local and international counterparts, especially, the Mexican government is timely and essential. Intelligence and information sharing with anti-narcotic agencies in Mexico, is vital in the detection, deterrence and neutralization of Mexican drug personalities operating in the Philippines and East Asian countries,” said Assistant Secretary Gadapan during his presentation.

Director Reyes expressed his appreciation for the help that the PREGINET has extended. “Generally, we are satisfied with the service,” he said.

The event was a success, in addition to a new opportunity that has opened, that is, having the PDEA as PREGINET’s potential partner.